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Science News Archive February 2014


Page 2 of 30

Is marriage killing us?

A new national interdisciplinary effort examines how biology and social factors interact within marriage to affect cardiovascular health. The study aims to identify risk factors for heart disease and elucidate the mechanisms underlying this relationship.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

New invasive species breakthrough sparks interest around the world

Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a method to predict the impacts of invasive species based on their behavior. By analyzing the rate at which an organism consumes resources, they found that 'damaging invaders' consistently have higher curves than native species, leading to population decline and extinction.

Study uncovers why autism is more common in males

A large cohort study found that females diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders have a greater number of harmful genetic mutations than males. This suggests that the female brain requires more extreme genetic alterations to produce symptoms of ASD or neurodevelopmental disorders.

Physicians' stethoscopes more contaminated than palms of their hands

A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that physicians' stethoscopes are more contaminated than the palms of their hands with bacteria such as MRSA. The researchers discovered that the stethoscope's diaphragm and tube were heavily contaminated, emphasizing the need for frequent disinfection after each use.

An ancient 'Great Leap Forward' for life in the open ocean

Researchers found that oxygenating cyanobacteria first colonized the oceans around 800 million years ago, providing enough bioavailable nitrogen to facilitate the next 'great leap forward' towards complex life. This pivotal moment in evolution may have been triggered by changes in nitrogen fixation in the open ocean.

International study shows majority of children unaware of cigarette warning labels

An international study found that only 38% of children worldwide are aware of warning labels on cigarette packages, with graphic images having the greatest impact in Brazil. The study suggests that health warning labels should be large and clear, especially for low-literacy populations, to effectively communicate anti-smoking messages.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Big step for next-generation fuel cells and electrolyzers

Researchers at Berkeley and Argonne National Labs developed a new class of bimetallic nanocatalysts, hollow polyhedral nanoframes of platinum and nickel, which feature a three-dimensional catalytic surface activity. These catalysts are significantly more efficient and far less expensive than the best platinum catalysts used in today's ...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

10,000 years on the Bering land bridge

Scientists suggest ancestors of Native Americans lived in shrub-tundra refugia on Bering land bridge for 10,000 years. The environment provided resources such as wood for construction and fires, allowing people to persist during the last glacial maximum.

Huntington proteins and their nasty 'social network'

A large-scale protein interaction network for Huntington's disease has been identified, providing valuable insights into the disease's pathology. The network implicates the RhoGTPase signaling pathway, which affects cell motility, membrane dynamics, and cell attachment, offering potential therapeutic targets.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Probing the edge of chaos

Researchers find fractal distribution of physical characteristics at edge of chaos, deviating from previously reported bell-curve shape. This discovery could improve understanding of chaotic natural phenomena.

Livestock found ganging up on pandas at the bamboo buffet

A Michigan State University study reveals that livestock, particularly horses, are devastating panda habitats by competing for food and resources. The research highlights the importance of addressing competition from livestock in sensitive ecosystems.

Bison ready for new pastures?

A new study by the USDA and WCS demonstrates a quarantine protocol that can qualify young bison as brucellosis-free in under three years, enabling their use to seed conservation herds without disease transmission. The study shows no evidence of brucellosis was found in either newborn calves or their mothers.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

'Oddball science' has proven worth, say UMass Amherst biologists

Basic biological research on unusual animal adaptations has led to significant economic and social benefits, including the development of DNA replication techniques and gecko-inspired adhesives. The authors argue that studying 'odd' science ideas can drive innovation and improve education and health.

Battery-free technology brings gesture recognition to all devices

Researchers have developed a low-cost, battery-free gesture recognition system called AllSee, which uses existing TV signals as both power and detection means. The technology enables seamless interaction with electronic devices hidden from sight using simple hand movements.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Internal logic: 8 distinct subnetworks in mouse cerebral cortex

The study reveals that the mammalian cerebral cortex is organized into eight distinct subnetworks, which are relatively segregated and highly interconnected. These subnetworks facilitate motor behaviors such as eating and drinking, reaching and grabbing, locomotion and exploration of the environment.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

UCSB study reveals evolution at work

A new UCSB study uncovers unique evolutionary adaptations in the primate brain, highlighting the crucial role of microRNAs in a portion of the brain called the outer subventricular zone (OSVZ). These findings suggest that microRNAs are responsible for controlling gene expression and regulating complex cellular processes.

A bird's eye view of cellular RNAs

A team at Harvard University developed a new method to pinpoint thousands of mRNA molecules within intact cells, revealing their sequence and function. This breakthrough could lead to earlier cancer diagnosis and better understanding of tissue development.

Faster anthrax detection could speed bioterror response

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method for anthrax detection that can identify anthrax in just five hours, compared to current tests which take 24-48 hours. The new method uses a bioluminescent reporter phage to detect anthrax bacteria and rule out false positives.

Do obesity, birth control pills raise risk of multiple sclerosis?

Researchers found that women who are obese at age 20 are twice as likely to develop MS later in life. Additionally, those who used hormonal contraceptives for at least three months were 35% more likely to develop MS compared to non-users, highlighting a potential contributing factor to the rise in MS cases among women.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

The pain of social exclusion

A study published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience found that social exclusion activates the same brain circuits responsible for physical pain. The research used real people in videos to simulate social exclusion and physical pain, revealing activation of the posterior insular cortex in both conditions.

Yale study provides a breath of hope for pulmonary hypertension patients

Researchers at Yale University have made a breakthrough in understanding the cellular mechanisms behind pulmonary hypertension, a life-threatening condition that affects millions. The study identified specific cells responsible for the disease's progression and suggests potential targets for therapy.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

American Bar Association awards lower ratings to women and minorities

A new study by University of Rochester researcher Maya Sen finds that the American Bar Association systematically awards lower ratings to minorities and women than to white or male candidates. This has significant implications for representation in federal courts, with African Americans being 42 percentage points less likely to receive...

Famed Milwaukee County Zoo orangutan's death caused by strange infection

A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison identified a new species of tapeworm in Mahal, an orangutan that died at age 5 due to a rare infection. The tapeworm, belonging to the Versteria genus, was found to be in its larval stage and infected nearly every organ in Mahal's body.

Altruistic suicide in organisms helps relatives

A new study by Dr Pierre Durand and colleagues found that programmed cell death in single-celled algae benefits the organism's relatives, releasing nutrients that inhibit growth of non-relatives.

Study projects big thaw for Antarctic sea ice

A new study projects that Antarctica's Ross Sea will lose over half its summer sea ice by 2050 and nearly three-quarters by 2100. This change will significantly impact the region's pristine food web, affecting species such as whales, penguins, and seals.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Male goat essence really turns the females on

A team of researchers has discovered a novel, citrus-scented pheromone in the essence of male goats that acts on female brains to turn their reproductive systems on. The study, published in Current Biology, identifies 4-ethyloctanal as the key ingredient with this effect.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

More dangerous chemicals in everyday life: Now experts warn against nanosilver

A study from the University of Southern Denmark reveals that nano-silver can lead to changes in human intestinal cells, causing an overproduction of free radicals and potentially contributing to diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. The researchers emphasize caution against consuming dietary supplements containing nano-silver.

Household wealth still down 14 percent since recession

A recent study by Ohio State University economists found that household wealth in the US has not recovered from the recession, with middle-aged people taking the biggest hit. The study contradicts the Federal Reserve's optimistic report from last summer, which suggested that net worth had recovered since the recession.

BUSM Study discovers novel therapeutic targets for Huntington's disease

A study published in PLOS Genetics identified specific small segments of RNA that are highly expressed in Huntington's disease and may act as a mitigating factor, making them potential therapeutic targets. The researchers found that these microRNAs are present in higher quantities in patients with HD and may promote cell survival.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Scientists to tackle burden of cattle disease on UK farms

A new £1 million project will improve detection and control of liver fluke in UK dairy farms, causing weight loss, anaemia and lethargy. The research programme aims to develop sustainable drug treatments and practical farming techniques.

Effective treatment for youth anxiety disorders has lasting benefit

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that 80% of youth responders to CBT and sertraline maintained positive treatment response over a 6-month follow-up period. The study also showed that combined therapy had greater benefits, with fewer youth failing to achieve responder status.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.